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went around Cape Horn, we were constantly beset with storms of wind and rain. Sometimes also, we were visited with squalls of

snow.

On one occasion, we saw islands of ice, and our vessel was very near being wrecked upon them. I was astonished to find such weather and such masses of ice here in midsummer. But the captain told me these things were by

no means uncommon.

We all know, that in Greenland and other countries toward the north pole, the weather is always cold, and that ice covers the land throughout winter and summer. But, perhaps, my little reader may not have been told that it is quite as cold toward the south, as toward the north pole. A little to the southeast of Cape Horn, there are islands in the sea which are always buried in masses of snow and ice. No trees can grow there, no animals

What about islands of ice? What does Parley say of the north and south pole? What of the islands southeast of Cape Horn?

except seals, which come from the ocean, are found in these dreary places, and no land bird but the lark dwells there. It seems strange that this cheerful bird, which in our own country chooses the blooming meadow for his home, and flies away to some warmer region when the winter approaches, should make his abode in these cold and lonely islands.

Having passed around Cape Horn, we entered the Pacific ocean, stretched to the northward along the coast of South America, and soon came in sight of the island of Juan Fernandez. We did not stop at this place; but I have a very interesting story to tell it, in another chapter.

you about

CHAPTER IV

Description of the Island of Juan Fernandez. Story of Alexander Selkirk.

THE island of Juan Fernandez is not very

What about the Lark? Where is the island of Juan Fernandez' Describe the island of Juan Fernandez.

large, but it is very beautiful. beautiful. It is diversified with hills and valleys, and it abounds in trees, many of which produce rich fruits. The climate is delightful, it being at all seasons like a continued spring. Throughout the year the land is covered with verdure, and fragrant flowers of every form and color, in their proper seasons adorn the landscape.

Many years ago, a Spaniard of the name of Juan Fernandez, settled in this charming island. There were several families with him, and here he resided for sometime. But at length, he and his companions removed to Chili, on the coast of South America, and from that time the island was uninhabited. It however took the name of its former proprietor, and was often visited, as it continues to be at this day, by ships for refreshments.

1

In the year 1705, an English captain came to this place to get food and water for his men. Among other sailors, he had one by the

Of what place was Alexander Selkirk a native ?

name of Alexander Selkirk, who was a native of Sago in Scotland. This man did something to displease the captain, and he threatened to leave him on the island. Selkirk at first, thought he should be willing to stay, but he changed his mind when he saw his companions about to depart. He then begged the captain to let him go on board the vessel, but this was refused, and the ship sailed away, leaving poor Selkirk alone on the island.

At first, he was overwhelmed with grief. He was alone, on an island in the midst of the ocean. He was far away from his home, far from his country, with no friend, no human being to speak to. He sat down He sat down upon the ground, and wept like a child.

For a long time, he gave himself up to despondency. When night came, he had no shelter, and the feeling of desolation pressed still more heavily upon his heart. He lay down

Why was he left upon the island of Juan Fernandez? In what year was it that he was left there? Will you tell the story of Selkirk while he was upon the island Juan Fernandez:

in the open air, but he could not sleep. He could see nothing around him but the gloomy forests, he could hear nothing but the moan of the sea, and the bleating of the wild goats upon the hills. No cheerful lights glimmered from any human habitation, no human voice mingled with the sounds that met his ear. All was desolate and wild, and assured him that he was indeed alone.

After spending a restless night, the morning came and Selkirk now felt it necessary to set about obtaining some food. The captain had left him his clothes, a bed, some tobacco, a gun, a little powder, and some bullets; beside these, he had also a hatchet, a kettle, and a knife.

He now took his gun, and went in pursuit of one of the wild goats. These animals were very plentiful, but they fled before him. He was soon able, however, to shoot one of them. This he dressed, and cooked a part of it for breakfast.

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